Increased ticket sales, and more income from broadcasting rights and sponsorship have helped Scottish Rugby get over the line to achieve its first £50 million-plus turnover.

Increases in ticketing revenue, achieved through three sell-out RBS Six Nations matches in 2017 and growing crowds at other matches, improved broadcast rights payments and continued commercial growth from sponsors all added to a £4m increase in turnover to £51.4m from the 2016 accounts.

Scotland’s rise to 5th in the World Rankings achieved through 7 victories from 11 internationals last season underpinned the landmark turnover figure, supported by improved performances by Scotland 7s, Scotland Women and Scotland Under 20s.

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Nearly 600,000 fans watched an international or professional club game in Scotland last season which in turn led to a 25% rise in ticketing revenue, compared to the last non-Rugby World Cup year 2014/15, and a 22% rise in broadcast rights income.

A surplus of £1.7 million was achieved in the 2016/2017 financial year and a £3.3million fall in the average debt, which was reported at £5.2million. Investment into club support and development was £2.8m, alongside additional revenues for the domestic game from the national body sportscotland and the Government’s Cashback for Communities Scheme.

Scotland’s two professional teams have also seen growth in key areas.

Glasgow Warriors sold a record 4,839 season tickets and welcomed a record 101,889 fans to Scotstoun last season.

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Edinburgh Rugby increased its commercial revenues by 24% and welcomed six new sponsors into its portfolio.

The capital club also hosted a sold out opening game at its new home at Myreside last season.

Scottish Rugby Chairman Colin Grassie said: “While the increase is please we cannot be complacent as professional player costs continue to rise and competition for broadcast and sponsorship deals remains fierce. Scottish Rugby is at a pivotal moment.

"We need to be creative to combat the challenges ahead while also driving forward our ambitious modernisation and commercial strategies.”

Scottish Rugby Chief Executive Mark Dodson said: “It has been a successful season on a number of fronts, from Scotland winning all three home RBS 6 Nations matches in front of sell-out crowds to generating record revenue in a difficult financial climate.

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“While we’re in a period of financial growth we must also be proactive and plan for the future, which is why we have set ourselves the long-term objective of generating significant external investment to secure the future of our game in Scotland.

“The reduction of our average debt and the fantastic support from fans and all our partners is making it possible to significantly invest across the game in Scotland and the success of initiatives such as the Mitsubishi Schools & Youth Conferences, Tartan Touch and the #BeTheBestYou campaign demonstrate we are making positive progress in key areas.”